MOGADISHU,— Somalia’s Federal Government is reportedly intensifying efforts to expand its security and political influence within Puntland, amid deepening tensions between the regional administration and Villa Somalia over governance and federal authority.

According to regional and political sources, federal authorities have recently recruited and trained new personnel in the Jariiban district of Mudug region, with the recruits allegedly receiving weapons and military support as part of a broader federal security initiative.

Sources further indicate that Mogadishu has developed influence within sections of Puntland’s security apparatus, with some Puntland-affiliated forces reportedly receiving salaries through federal government channels.

The reported developments come at a time of heightened political friction between the Federal Government and the Puntland administration led by Said Abdullahi Deni, who is said to be increasingly concerned over what Puntland officials view as expanding federal interference in regional security affairs.

Political observers say the tensions are also linked to Puntland’s close ties with the United Arab Emirates, a key regional actor viewed by some within Somalia’s political establishment as being at odds with aspects of the current federal administration’s agenda.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government continues broader efforts to rebuild and restructure the Somali National Army’s regional divisions across the country, including the 43rd Division in Jubbaland, the 60th Division in South West State, the 27th Division in Hirshabelle, the 21st Division in Galmudug, the 54th Division in Puntland, and the 56th Division in Somaliland.

The federal authorities have not publicly commented on the reported recruitment activities or claims regarding financial links to Puntland security forces.